Avoiding a Hernia

A hernia is a weakness in the muscle wall. A parastomal hernia can occur around the stoma and is more common depending on the following risk factors:

• Age
• Weight
• Strenuous or heavy lifting
• Smoking
• Multiple abdominal and/or emergency surgery

A parastomal hernia can vary in size from as small as a golf ball to as large as a football. There are numerous abdominal support garments that are helpful in concealing and supporting the hernia. It is recommended that you wear a light support garment as prevention. However, if you are partaking in strenuous activity, it is necessary to be measured for a more supportive garment. Your Stomal Therapy Nurse can arrange this for you.

In some people, the parastomal hernia will not cause any discomfort, but others may experience a dragging sensation, discomfort or pain. This will often depend on the size of the hernia and can be eased by wearing a measured support garment.
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It is possible to have surgery to repair the hernia depending on the symptoms and effect on quality of life, but this will be assessed on an individual basis by your Surgeon. It should be noted that there may still be a risk of another hernia developing following the repair.